Edie Melson's Blog, page 128

Common Writing Obstacles (Part 4): World Building

by Henry McLaughlin @RiverBendSagas
I think our story world is one of the more subtle areas of writing and one we frequently pay less attention to. We focus on our plot and building our characters but don’t approach the time and place of the story as fervently.
World building is creating the world or setting of our story. Where does the action take place? When does the action take place? One of the early lessons I learned in writing, especially fiction, is to keep the reader anchored in time and place.
Is it a spaceship sailing 500 years from now? Or is it Jules Verne or C. S. Lewis—science fiction written from their unique perspectives?
Is it a sailing ship crossing the Atlantic 400 years ago bringing pilgrims to the New World? Or is it a cruise ship flipped upside down by a storm or struck by an iceberg?
Is it contemporary Fort Worth or Dodge City in the 1880s?
Is it an entirely fictional world like Middle Earth?
Are we writing crime novels, suspense, thrillers, mysteries? Any of these genres requires a unique approach to creating story worlds. Read the early writers like Hammet, Chandler, and Dorothy Sayer. Read the contemporary authors like Bob Dugoni. 
And no matter your genre or story world, you will need to do research either before you start or after each draft. Study the actual history of your story world and read historical novels set in the period of your story and assess the accuracy and the believability of your version of the world.
No matter where or when we set our story, it must be believable, and it must be something the reader can visualize and imagine the characters interacting with. The more we can make the setting a character in our story, the more solid and engaging it will be. Think of the movie The Perfect Storm, or Andy Weir’s novel, The Martian. For an interesting use of story world, watch The Martian Child which explores Earth through the eyes of a young boy who thinks he’s from Mars. 
One of my favorite authors to study for world building is Orson Scott Card. His science fiction, fantasy novels, and alternative history stories show how to build a believable world and make it a character. He has written a craft book I recommend in almost every class I teach and to every author I mentor. It’s called How to Write Fantasy & Science Fiction (Writer’s Digest Books, 1990). It is a priceless resource in how to write in any genre.
Another factor to consider is your story world is not static. It changes and grows as your story develops and you learn new things about your characters and your plot.
And remember, each character’s interaction with your story world is different. The same world but seen from different points of view. One character may see your beautiful tropical island as peaceful and serene, heaven on earth. Another may see the same island as hostile and threatening, filled with poisonous plants and dangerous animals. How they see the world of the story affects how they respond to the obstacles they face their interactions with other characters. 
What are some of your favorite resources for building a story world?
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Don't Miss the Rest of the Posts in This Series!Common Writing Obstacles (Part 1): TimeCommon Writing Obstacles (Part 2): Talent vs LearningCommon Writing Obstacles (Part 3):  PerfectionismCommon Writing Obstacles (Part 4): World Building
Henry’s debut novel, Journey to Riverbend, won the 2009 Operation First Novel contest.
Henry edits novels, leads critique groups, and teaches at conferences and workshops. He enjoys mentoring and coaching individual writers.
Connect with Henry on his BLOG, TWITTER and FACEBOOK.

Characteristics of a Determined Writer

by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
Determination is the foundation of a writer’s success. Without the courage, purpose, and willpower to learn the craft, a writer merely dreams about a goal they will never achieve. Writing success isn’t measured by mastering a few skills but by continuously learning about every area of the publishing world. Every writer needs to develop characteristics of a determined writer.
Let’s first establish what writer determination is NOT:
1. Doing whatever it takes to reach publication.
2. Ignoring family and friends.
3. Placing writing above God.
4. Sacrificing good health.
5. Working seven days a week.
6. Refusing to edit or make changes.
Below shows some writer determination qualities in an acrostic: 
D E T E R M I N A T I O N
D – DedicatedWe commit to writing our best by respecting those who have gone before us and those who light the way forward. We evaluate our habits and practices for ways to continue or improve in our profession.
E – EnergeticWe apply spirit and vitality to exploring every detail of the writing life. Our energy translates into vitality for life and the publishing world.
T – TeachableWe open our hearts and minds to writing techniques and methods of sharing our work with the world. We are open to learning new skills and learn from masters of the craft.
E – EnthusiasticWe show excitement for the writing industry and are passionate about our writing projects.
R – ReliableWe are dependable. Our yes, means yes. Deadlines are met with quality work and expertise. 
M – MotivatedWe are driven by the need to show readers quality prose that entertains, inspires, encourages, and informs. 
I – InspirationalWe refuse to compromise our faith, our relationships with others, or practice any unscrupulous way to publication. We believe our gift of writing comes from God, and we want to be an inspiration to others.
N – NetworkableWe connect with other writers and those in the publishing industry to learn, grow, and help others. 
A – AuthenticWe are genuine. No façade or pretense. The writer someone meets at an event is the same person in the comforts of their home.
T – TrustworthyWe ensure our writing is factual, accurate, and dependable. A writer admits when a mistake is made and takes steps to correct the error. 
I – IntegrityWe stand for honesty, righteousness, and morality in our dealings with others. In our writing, we do not knowingly plagiarize. Our signature shows who we are.
O – OptimisticWe act when comments and edits suggest our writing, habits, character, or life skills can be improved. Gray days happen but we know the sun will shine.
N – Not-normalWe look at the world differently by appreciating the uniqueness of culture, people, and setting. We are not normal, and neither will we ever be nor want to be. We have been given the gift of writing, and that means words flow through us with meaning and purpose. 
How do you view writer determination? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below!
TWEETABLECharacteristics of a Determined Writer, from author @DiAnnMills on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She creates action-packed, suspense-filled novels to thrill readers. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. 
She is the former director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Mountainside Marketing Retreat, and Mountainside Novelist Retreat with social media specialist Edie Melson. Connect here: DiAnnMills.com
Featured Image: Photo by Dylann Hendricks | 딜란 on Unsplash

Dipping the Quill Deeper: A Question of Provision for Writers

by Eva Marie Everson
First, A Look at the Old
In the days of Moses, when the Hebrew slaves in Egypt were about to become a freed Jewish nation of people, God instructed them to prepare for what would later be called Pesach, or the Passover (see Exodus 12). This preparation included a perfect lamb’s blood on the doorposts of their homes and bread prepared without yeast. 
Soon, they were packed up and ready to roll, leaving Egypt behind to follow Moses into the desert where they were to journey toward the Promised Land. Enroute, they miraculously crossed the Red Sea while God held back the water, then watched it fall upon the Egyptian army, which had come after them. The people sang and danced and were glad . . . until . . .
They had an issue with drinking water. For three days, there was none to be found. Imagine their glee when they came upon the oasis of Marah followed by their disappointment at realizing the water there was bitter. So Moses took a piece of wood, threw it into the water, and the water became sweet. 
Satisfied, the people moved on.
A month later, they had journeyed into the Wilderness of Sin (Sinai) where they began to complain because they were hungry. 
Then the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you. And the people shall go out and gather a certain quota every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in My law or not. And it shall be on the sixth day that they shall prepare what they bring in, and it shall be twice as much as they gather daily” (Exodus 16:5,6 NKJV).*
The crossing of the Red Sea. Bitter water turned drinkable. Manna (bread) every morning. 
Signs and wonders . . .
In Jesus’ Day
The time was nearing to celebrate Pesach. Jesus and His disciples had crossed the Sea of Galilee and docked near Bethsaida (Luke 9:10), which was located along the northeastern shore. Peter, his brother Andrew, and Philip had all three grown up in this fishing village. 
No sooner had Jesus and His disciples arrived than a crowd showed up. According to the story recorded by the apostle John, a huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick (John 6:2 NLT). 
Signs and wonders . . .
Jesus then turned to Philip and asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” (6:5a)
This seems logical, doesn’t it? Jesus, who grew up in Nazareth, is asking the question of Philip, who grew up in Bethsaida. He is, in effect, a visitor asking the local, “Where do you suggest we get some bread?” This is much like if you came to the Orlando area and asked me, “What’s your favorite grocery store?” or “What’s your favorite restaurant?”
But Philip looked at things from a financial point of view. “We don’t have enough money to feed them! Even if we worked for months . . .” (6:5b) In other words, he didn’t answer the question.
But Andrew, who also had grown up there, came up with a half-answer. “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” (6:8 NIV). The fact that John recorded that the bread (pita) was barley was to let the reader know that this boy was poor. He was but a poor child with a poor man’s lunch. 
But in the hands of Jesus, it was more than enough to feed 5,000 men (not including women and children) with basketfuls left over.
Signs and wonders . . .
Jesus’ Question to You, Dear Writer
The questions God asked throughout the Bible are the questions He still asks today. Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?
Jesus was specific with Philip. He didn’t ask about any food other than bread. And I’m certain, that as a Jewish men and women, those in attendance saw something more than just the miracle. The bread in the wilderness had been from God. The bread on a hillside outside of Bethsaida was also from God. In the wilderness wanderings, God had taken dew and turned it into bread that fed the Hebrews to their fill. As the Jewish people gathered around Jesus, hungry, He took the offerings of a poor boy and turned it into more than enough.
Have you noticed that there are writers out there who seem more eloquent than you? The words appear to come easily to them. They sit, you suppose, and within minutes they have composed award-winning masterpieces. But the truth is, it’s the “poor boy’s lunch” that feeds the greatest number of people. 
Our job is to rely on the Bread-maker. Our job is to give Him what poor little bit we have—although some may see it as quite impressive—and let him multiply it to fill those who will partake of it.
In your writing, are you seeking the Bread of Life? Are you looking to Him for your writing provisions? Take your journal and write the question at the top of a fresh page. Then, answer the Lord—honestly. Remember, He knows your heart. There is no reason to make things up with Him.
*The NKJV does not capitalize the pronouns for God.
TWEETABLEDipping the Quill Deeper: A Question of Provision for Writers, insight from Eva Marie Everson on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Eva Marie Everson’s book The Third Path, which examines the questions God asked in the Bible and our responses, is due to release in August 2022. To stay informed, go to EvaMarieEversonAuthor.com and request to be added to her monthly newsletter. 
Eva Marie Everson is the president of Word Weavers International, the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, and the contest director for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She is the multiple award-winning author of 40 books and countless articles and blogposts. She is also an award-winning speaker and a Bible teacher. Eva Marie is often seen at writers conferences across the States. She served as a mentor for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild and taught as a guest professor at Taylor University in 2011. She and her husband make their home in Central Florida where they enjoy their grandchildren. They are owned by one persnickety cat. 

Dipping the Quill Deeper: A Question of Worth for Writers

by Eva Marie Everson
This year I will see my 41st and my 42nd books published. One of those books is based on a continuing class I’ve given at writers conferences for the past several years, a class initially titled “Labyrinth.” 
The idea for “Labyrinth” came after I served on faculty at the Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference in Andalusia, Alabama. While there, and just as I was about to leave, I picked up a folded piece of paper that had been on the desk of my lodging room, but one I had not bothered to look at before. The paper held information about the prayer labyrinth located on the conference center’s grounds.
After weeks of studying up on prayer labyrinths and journaling my desire to, first, find one that I could walk and then, second, that I could own, I found myself immersed in a written question and answer session with God—one that continues today. 
That session led to the class and the class led to a book with a current working title of The Third Path; Finding Intimacy with God on the Path of Questioning (to be published by Bold Vision Books). Within the pages of this work, I dig into some of the questions God asks within the Bible, questions He asks men and women, not because He doesn’t know the answers, but because He wants the recipient to findthem.
I included 26 questions . . . but there are many, many more with God’s Word.
Let’s take a moment to look at another one.
Matthew 10:29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? 
Jesus is about to send His twelve disciples out to minister in His name among the Jews only. But before doing so, He gave them explicit instructions along with the power to heal the sick, raise the dead, and drive out demons. He also gave one of my favorite directions when He said, “When you enter a home, give it your greeting” (Matthew 10:12). In the book of Luke, at another time of sending His disciples out, His instruction was given this way: “When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house’ (10:5). 
Because I stay in a lot of homes while traveling, these are words I keep close to my heart. 
But, back to our story. 
Jesus’ instructions continued.
He told the disciples that He was sending them out like sheep among wolves, so they were to always stay on guard. When arrested (I find it interesting that He never said if but when), they were not to worry about what to say because “you will be given the words to say by the Spirit of my Father” (Matthew 10:20, paraphrased).
Then it seems that Jesus began to speak prophetically of a time and place and of future circumstances. Brother against brother. Father against child. Children against parents. Death.
Salvation.
Then Jesus began to teach. He spoke of students not being above their teacher, or a servant above his master . . . but, He said, it is enough to be like the teacher or the master.
“But do not be afraid,” Jesus then continued. “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul” (26,28). 
And then comes the question: Are not two sparrows sold for a penny?
Sparrows and PenniesSparrows are tiny, compact birds. You’ve probably heard them when you wake up and stretch in your bed as they are already at work, singing their morning songs. They’re pretty much everywhere. Common. They sing in “choirs” and their melodies are a complex blending of chirrups and tschilps and philips.
Did I mention they’re small? And, because there are so many varieties, they are not always so easily recognizable. You might see a sparrow and think it’s a wren. You could possibly see a song sparrow and think it is lark sparrow.
The question Jesus asked the disciples in Matthew about the value of sparrows is much like the question He asked during another event recorded in Luke 12. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies?
The coins mentioned here were assarias, which was a Roman coin we’d associate with a penny. In their day, the tiniest bird for the lowest amount of money. But Jesus is not speaking of their worthlessness, but of their worthiness to the Father. 
Yet not one of them is forgotten by God . . . you are worth more than many sparrows (Luke 12:6b,7b).
What Is Your Value?In our world of publishing during what seems to be these prophetic times, these times of the world’s great need for a Savior, it’s easy to look at what others are doing—the bigger birds—and think our miniscule morning songs are not of much value. That bird over there has a book contract with lots of money dedicated to advances and promotions. That bird over there has hit #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. That bird over there is asked to speak at all the best churches, book clubs, and/or writing conferences. That bird over there stands on the stage everywhere and gives keynote address after keynote address, inspiring others with words I’m sure I could sing just as well. That bird over there is easily recognized.
But here I am singing my tiny, simple good-morning song. A lovely tune, to be sure. But look how small I am. How insignificant I am, singing in this choir, my work or myself hardly distinguishable. What value do I have amongst all those big birds?
The Question and the AnswerJesus not only asked the question (in both Matthew and Luke), He also gave the answer. You, little sparrow, are invaluable to the Father. 
Look back a few verses in Matthew at something Jesus said before He asked the question we’ve looked at today. “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). 
You see, we are not working as writers to satisfy others who may or may not see our worth; we are working as writers to please God, who sees us as invaluable. 
AssignmentIn your journal (I hope you have one!), write the question: Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Then rewrite it into this paraphrased version: How valuable am I to God? 
Really dig into this question. Reflect on all He has done and continues to do for you. Take your time; when you really start to answer the questions, you’ll discover the answers are as complex as a sparrow’s song.
TWEETABLEDipping the Quill Deeper: A Question of Worth for Writers, insight from Eva Marie Everson on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Eva Marie Everson’s book The Third Path, which examines the questions God asked in the Bible and our responses, is due to release in August 2022. To stay informed, go to EvaMarieEversonAuthor.com and request to be added to her monthly newsletter. 
Eva Marie Everson is the president of Word Weavers International, the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, and the contest director for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She is the multiple award-winning author of 40 books and countless articles and blogposts. She is also an award-winning speaker and a Bible teacher. Eva Marie is often seen at writers conferences across the States. She served as a mentor for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild and taught as a guest professor at Taylor University in 2011. She and her husband make their home in Central Florida where they enjoy their grandchildren. They are owned by one persnickety cat. 

Best Places to Find Readers for the Books You Write

by Ane Mulligan @AneMulligan
In today’s publishing world, we have to do more promotion for our books. But whom should we be trying to reach? Readers, of course. Okay, you knew that. But exactly who are these readers?

A lot of them are writers. Writers are voracious readers.Book club members. Book clubs are growing around the world.Senior citizens; they have more time now.Women (they buy 80% of all books)Where do we find them? Social Media. Websites for readers. Writer’s associations. Local civic clubs/groups. 
Social Media
Twitter and Facebook are my favorites, because I see an increase in followers each time I post. While I'm more familiar with Facebook (aren't we all?), I dislike the algorithm they use to decide who sees my post. I can choose which circles see my post or choose public. I like that aspect. Somethings I post I want to go to friends, others to Authors or Public. I have control. Always use proper social media etiquette and promote others twice as much as you do yourself. I’ve started adding Instagram to my marketing and reach a younger demographic.
Websites for Readers
There are several, but my favorites are Facebook and Goodreads. Both are for readers, not writers. It's a great place to find readers. I've picked up a few book clubs and a lot of reviews from giveaways there.
Writer’s Associations
If you carefully choose the authors whose blogs you ask to add to your blog tour, you can gain readers. Here's the deal: I write women's fiction. Ronie Kendig, while a dear friend, writes military thrillers. I won't glean many readers from among her fans. I try to stick to women's fiction and romance authors’ sites. 
Yeah, I hear you shouting that you read all kinds of genres, but before you use me for an archery practice target, hear me out. We only have so many hours for marketing. Are you going to aim at a site with a few thousand readers of your genre (we pick up about 3-7% of those readers) or a site where you might only realize one or two new readers? Yeah, I thought so. Target your social media and your blog tour.
Senior citizens
Here's an entire generation who reads. Target them through websites, churches, service clubs (like Kiwanis), libraries, senior centers, parks, and even the grocery store. 
A word for email/newsletter marketing
Email marketing is gaining ground. According to @PublishingPush on twitter, "For every $1 spent, $44.25 is the average return on email marketing investment." 
Remember though, if you do an email newsletter, use a service like MailChimp. I use my website host, who offers that service. Several offer free newsletters to up to 2,000 recipients before they charge you. These services offer instant opt outs for the recipient. At every event where you speak or do a book signing, have a newsletter sign-up sheet, because it's illegal to send newsletters without permission and an opt-out.
TWEETABLEBest Places to Find Readers for the Books You Write - @AneMulligan on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
While a large, floppy straw hat is her favorite, award-winning author Ane Mulligan has worn many different ones: hairdresser, legislative affairs director (that's a fancy name for a lobbyist), drama director, playwright, and bestselling novelist. She firmly believes coffee and chocolate are two of the four major food groups. Ane resides in Sugar Hill, GA, with her artist husband and a lovable, goofy dog. You can find Ane on her website, Amazon Author page, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.
Featured Image: Photo by Fallon Michael on Unsplash

The Science of Story for Writers

by Craig von Buseck @CraigVonBuseck
From the time our children can talk they ask us to “tell them a story.” We collectively spend millions of dollars buying children’s books and taking our kids and grandkids to the movies. Why? Because human beings are created for story.
“The telling of tales does more than entertain,” writes Lee Gutkind, the godfather of creative nonfiction. “It transmits important information between generations, making important events of the past relevant.”[1]
Stories are all around us and we spend a large amount of our time every day in imaginary worlds—some of our own making and others in books, television, movies, podcasts, radio—the list goes on and on.
“Neuropsychologists are discovering that the impulse for story is likely hard-wired into our brains,” Gutkind explains.[2]
Stories are an important part of how human beings think and process reality. As writers we should always be on alert for stories that will make an impact. One of my books is about survivor of the Holocaust who lost most of her family to the diabolical Nazis. When I shared this remarkably moving story with an acquisitions editor at a writer’s conference, he responded that it was “a story that needed to be told.”
And that is our job—to tell the stories that need to be told.
Seeing the Story in the MRI
Science writer Stephen Hall wanted to actually “see” how the brain formed a story. He designed an experiment where he created a story in his mind while he was wired for an MRI brain scan. To everyone’s amazement, the screen showed an area the size of a sugar cube that lit up in his right frontal lobe. Reporting his findings in the New York Times Magazine, Hall spoke of this section of the brain, located in inferior frontal gyrus, as “the storytelling area.” Linked with other sections of the brain, including the visual cortex, Hall referred to these as the brain’s “storytelling system.”[3]
In his book, Keep it Real, Lee Gutkind writes: “Recent research regarding the brain would suggest that narratives of self—both the telling (writing) and the hearing (reading)—stem from impulses basic to our being. We’ve learned that the mind is malleable, that the brain’s neural pathways constantly rewire themselves to order sensory input, creating connections among disparate facts and ultimately spinning explanations about the self in the world.”[4]
We call this process “meaning making.” It is also a vital part of what we do as writers and communicators.
Mirror Neurons and Story
Truly amazing research has emerged in recent years showing what are called “mirror neurons” that cause readers to identify with characters in our books and then respond emotionally to their actions.[5] Writing in Psychology Today, Norman N. Holland explains that mirror neurons have been called the most important discovery since DNA. 
“Mirror neurons map actions that we see others perform onto the viscero-motor and somatosensory representations in our own brains,” says Holland. “Most important for fiction [and all communication], we map on hearing or reading the words describing an action.”
“When we read fiction or see a movie or a play and even when we see a painting, we map these fictional humans' actions, emotions, and sensations onto our own brains' visceral, motor, and sensory representations,” Holland explains. “That accounts for our emotional experience, which comes before our cognitive experience.”[6]
The discovery of mirror neurons explains why we respond emotionally to fictional characters, treating them as real even though we know they are not. I had this experience when I listened to the audio book of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I actually began to cry when the book ended because I knew I would miss the friends I had made while listening to the story.
Life Lessons and Survival
“Story scientists argue that one reason we are so attracted to stories is that their life lessons have survival value,” Jack Hart observes.[7]
In The Storytelling Animal, Jonathan Gottschall declares that “stories revolve around a handful of master themes.” He lists love, fear of death, sex, the challenges of life, and power.[8] In The Book on Writing, former Dallas Times-Herald writing coach Paula LaRocque also includes what she calls “theme or action archetypes”: quest, search, journey, pursuit, capture, rescue, escape, love, forbidden love, unrequited love, adventure, riddle, mystery, sacrifice, discovery, temptation, loss or gain of identity, metamorphosis, transformation, dragon-slaying, descent to an underworld, rebirth, redemption.[9] 
Every theme incorporates a lesson—and this is part of what draws a reader to a story. The more important the lesson, the bigger the attraction to the audience. 
“Archetypal tales,” LaRocque observes, “are in their essence moral or cautionary tales. In contemporary art, they are sophisticated and subtle extrapolations of universal patterns. They seek cause, consequence, reason, and order. So does humankind.”[10]
Making Meaning
The world delivers the facts and the details. Writers examine the stories and then work to make sense of them—to “make meaning.”
“Stories are the cauldron where drama bubbles,” says William Noble. “Stories, in essence, are the foundation for literary art, and we need to understand that stories contain the seeds that turn an unremarkable event into something meaningful.”[11]
In his book, Into the Woods: A Five-Act Journey Into Story, John Yorke writes: “The Endless recurrence of the same underlying pattern suggests psychological, if not biological and physical reasons for the way we tell stories. Incapable of perceiving randomness, we insist on imposing order on any observed phenomena… We observe new stimuli … It’s thesis, antithesis, synthesis. … Storytelling, at one level, is a manifestation of this process.”
“Dramatic structure is not an arbitrary—or even a conscious—invention,” David Mamet explains. “It is an organic codification of the human mechanism for ordering information. Event, elaboration, denouement … boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl; act one, act two, act three.”[12]
“Storytelling, then, can be seen as a codification of the method by which we learn,” observes Yorke, “expressed in a three-act shape. A character is flawed, an inciting incident throws them into a world that represents everything they are not. …in the darkness of that forest, old and new integrate to achieve balance.”
“We cannot accept chaos; we have to order it.”[13]
The Best Story Wins
“The most gifted writers are those who manipulate the memory sets of the reader in such a rich fashion that they create within the mind of the reader an entire world that resonates with the reader’s own real emotions,” writes Jack Hart. “The events are merely taking place on the page, in print, but the emotions are real. Hence the unique feeling when one is ‘absorbed’ in a certain book, ‘lost’ in it.”[14]
In the movie Amistad, John Quincy Adams gives an abolitionist colleague a bit of sage advice. “When I was an attorney, a long time ago, I realized after much trial and error that in a courtroom, whoever tells the best story, wins.” Now we know why this is true.
It is the task of the writer to listen for the important and impactful stories that are told—and then craft them in such a way that we make them known, helping people to bring order out of chaos and inspiring them to strive for all God has for them in this world.
Learn more in Craig’s new book, Telling the Truth: How to Write Narrative Nonfiction, Biography and Memoir—coming soon from Bold Vision Books. 
Dr. Craig von Buseck is an award-winning author, popular speaker, and the Digital Content Manager for the Parenting section of Focusonthefamily.org. More from Craig at vonbuseck.com.
TWEETABLEThe Science of Story for Writers - @CraigVonBuseck on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Dr. Craig von Buseck is an award-winning author and the Digital Content Manager for the Parenting section of FocusontheFamily.com. His most recent book is Victor! The Final Battle of Ulysses S. Grant. Learn more at vonbuseck.com.

 Gutkind, Lee, Editor, Keep It Real, 112.

 Gutkind, Lee, Editor, Keep It Real, 98-99.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 4.

 Gutkind, Lee, Editor, Keep It Real, 109.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 15-16.

 Holland, Norman N. "Stories and the Mirror Inside You," Psychology Today,

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/bl..., accessed April, 2022.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 132.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 135.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 135.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 136.

 Noble, William, Writing Dramatic Nonfiction, 37-38.

 Yorke, John, Into the Woods: A Five-Act Journey Into Story, 28.

 Yorke, John, Into the Woods, 28.

 Hart, Jack, Story Craft, 89.

How to Make Your Characters Real in the Stories You Write—4 Essential Truths

by Zena Dell Lowe @ZenaDellLowe
A client called me recently because she couldn't figure out how to reveal to her audience who her character really was at heart. This is one of the most important things we must do as storytellers. We have to find a way to show, and not tell, the essential nature of our main character. 
As in real life, when we’re in relationship with others, we want to know who they really are beneath the mask or behind the public persona. We want to know that part of them that they try to hide or conceal to others. Otherwise, we don't really know them. The question is, how, as storytellers, can we reveal those things without simply resorting to direct statements? How do we show that our protagonist is actually kind and tenderhearted, brave or potentially heroic, clever or wily or cunning or shrewd, without actually saying these things? 
Who is the protagonist deep down, and how do we show it to our readers? These are perhaps the two most important questions we must ask ourselves at the start of any story. In order to answer or accomplish those questions, there are a few key truths we must first understand. 
4 Essential Truths in Storytelling
1. There’s a huge difference between characterization and True Character.
We spend a lot of time as writers trying to create great characters by giving them certain qualities or characteristics. We come up with rich backstories about their families of origin, what they do for a living, what they look like, how they dress, what kind of house they live in or how much money they make. And while these things are important, this is just characterization. It isn’t actually true character. 
2. Characterization is the sum of all of the observable traits that I could see about a person if I followed them around for a while and took notes.
By the end of the day, I'd have a nice little list of facts and details about that person's life. I’d know how much education they had. I’d know if they were rich or poor. I’d be able to catalogue their gender, age, height, hair color, sexual preference, what kind of clothes they wear, or what kinds of food they like to eat. With a little research, I could discover their political and religious beliefs, who they voted for, whether or not they attend church. I could even discover any secret habits or weird little mannerisms, whether or not they have nervous tics, or what sorts of coping mechanisms they’ve developed. The list could go on and on, and while all of these things are valuable and may end up playing into the narrative in some way, they are not true character. They are character traits. They are qualities or aspects of that person, but they are not who that person is at their core.
True character is who that person is deep down. It’s their essential nature. Their fundamental, authentic self. And there’s only one way to reveal that kind of information.
3. True character is revealed by the choices a person makes under pressure. The greater the pressure, the greater the revelation of that character’s true inner nature. 
A friend of mine used to say, “People are like grapes. When you squeeze them, you see what’s on the inside.” The same is true with people. Anybody can be on their best behavior or pretend to be good, but the minute things start going awry and the pressures start mounting, that’s when we find out who they really are at their core. When people are under stress, patience wears thin. They often blurt things out or lash out or act rashly in response to the stress. With enough spiritual fortitude, a person may be able to navigate the stressful situation with grace. But if the pressure keeps building, if the stressors keeps on coming, you can bet that eventually, they’re going to break. 
The fact is, it doesn’t matter who you are or how strong or spiritual you may be. If you’re under enough pressure, eventually, the truth will out. You will snap. And when you do, you’ll return to your default setting – the person you really are deep down, the fundamental you that you’ve worked so hard to overcome. Whatever character flaws you’ve so diligently tried to purge, that’s what we’re going to see. But this is actually good news… for the storyteller, at least.
4. If you want to reveal true character, all you have to do is put your protagonist in a tight situation and force them to make hard choices.
Again, if people are like grapes, then the best way to expose who they are on the inside is to squeeze them until they pop. To reveal to the audience what your protagonist is made of, you simply create high-pressure scenarios or high-stress situations, and then drop your character into it. This will force them to have to think on their feet. They’ll be forced to make some hard, spur-the-moment choices. It has to be a situation where they must act quickly. They can’t enter into it with a plan. They can't have time to weigh their options or concoct a plan during the moment. They must be forced to improvise. They have to rely on their wits and they have to do it now. This is how you show us what kind of a man or woman they are. 
The over-arching principle for you to remember is simply this: True character is revealed by the choices a person makes under pressure. How does your protagonist react to the high-stress situation? What does he choose to do? Whatever actions he takes at that moment reveals to your audience who that character truly is deep down. 
TWEETABLEHow to Make Your Characters Real in the Stories You Write—4 Essential Truths from @ZenaDellLowe on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Zena has worked professionally in the entertainment industry for over 20 years as a writer, producer, director, actress, and story consultant. Zena also teaches advanced classes on writing all over the country. As a writer, Zena has won numerous awards for her work. She also has several feature film projects in development through her independent production company, Mission Ranch Films. In addition to her work as a filmmaker, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe, a podcast designed to serve the whole artist, not just focus on craft. In 2021, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission Online Platform, where she offers advanced classes and other key services to writers. Zena loves story and loves to support storytellers. Her passion is to equip artists of all levels to achieve excellence at their craft, so that they will truly have everything they need to change the world for the better through story.
To find out more about Zena or her current courses and projects, check out her websites at WWW.MISSIONRANCHFILMS.COM and WWW.THESTORYTELLERSMISSION.COM
Featured Image: Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash

Three Must-Have Tools for Writers

By Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2
When I took a Computer Basics class, I learned a computer has two parts: software and hardware. Software is the brain. Hardware is the body. Writers also have two parts. Our software (brain) consists of intangibles like creativity, inspiration, and passion. Our hardware is tangible, everything from fingers to tap out our manuscripts, to the computer that translates our thoughts into words.
Today I’d like to share three pieces of hardware—writing tools—I can’t live without.
1. Paper Mate Ink Joy gel 0.5 pens in any color but REDWhy so specific? Because I don’t want you to get the wrong pen. My friend Jeannie Waters gave me my first Ink Joy. She knows I’m an editor as well as a writer, so she chose a delightful, non-threatening green ink color instead of the dreaded red. She didn’t want the pages I edited to look like a slasher movie. 
Jeannie’s a retired teacher who graded many assignments during her tenure. “This pen is my favorite,” she said. “It writes smoothly, doesn’t smear, and lasts forever.” Trust me. Use it once, and you’ll be hooked.
Then my friend Jean Wilund chimed in. “Be sure to get a fine point, 0.5. If you take notes in your Bible, you can write a lot with a fine point.” She was right. I have smart friends.
I loved my original green pen so much I purchased several sets in basic black. Then, glory halleluiah, I discovered a 24-count pack with every color imaginable (even red)—for less than a dollar a pen. Be still my heart. I’m in love.
2. Single Column Journaling BibleA wise instructor once said, “If you’re a Christian, and you presume to write for God, you’d better not open your computer until you open your Bible.” I’ve taken her words to heart. 
During my morning quiet time, I take notes and interact with what I read. Many of my Bibles have thoughts written into the too-thin margins and snaking around the edges of the text. Some days, even I can’t read what I’ve written. Heaven help any descendant to mine who attempts to decipher my scribbles. 
One day a Facebook friend posted how excited she was to begin a new year of Bible reading in her new journaling Bible. My ears perked up. What’s a journaling Bible?
A journaling Bible is designed with an extra-wide, lined margin to allow space for notes, prayers, or personal reflections. Because the Bible text is formatted in a single column, it’s easy to align my notes (written with my super-spiffy Ink Joy 0.5 pens) with specific verses. As I write, I feel as if I’m having an interactive conversation with God. He speaks through His Word, and I write my responses. I love this Bible so much.
3. Adjustable Standing DeskAs my writing career grew, I found myself sitting for long hours at the computer. I began to experience neck and back issues, circulation problems, and overall stiffness. Fellow writers suggested I invest in a standing desk, to allow me to alternate between sitting and standing every hour or so. 
Because I carry my laptop from place to place, I chose a portable desk that would fit on my dining room table, my office desk, and the table on my screened porch. It’s 30-inches x 20-inches—big enough to hold my laptop, clip board, reference book, and a glass of Diet Coke. A gas-spring riser allows me to raise it anywhere from 2-inches to 16-inches. I find this especially helpful if I’m on a Zoom call and want the laptop camera at eye level. For less than $80, this desk was a bargain. Note: This particular model weighs twenty pounds, which could be a hindrance for someone with strength issues.
Invest in Good ToolsYou may be tempted to skimp on writing tools, but don’t. As a chef needs a quality knife set, and a roofer can’t work efficiently without an pneumatic nail gun, writers need the proper equipment to succeed at their trade. Computer experts will tell you: it’s not enough to have the software. You need the hardware, too.
Now it’s your turn. What’s your favorite writing tool? Share it in the comments below (and leave a link if you’d like.)
TWEETABLEThree Must-Have Tools for Writers from @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lori Hatcher is an author, blogger, writing instructor, women’s ministry speaker, and career dental hygienist. She writes for Our Daily Bread, Guideposts, Revive Our Hearts, and Crosswalk.com. Lori’s latest devotional, Refresh Your Prayers, Uncommon Devotions to Restore Power and Praise, released March 1 with Our Daily Bread Publishing. Connect with her at www.LoriHatcher.com or on Facebook, Twitter (@lorihatcher2) or Pinterest (Hungry for God).
Featured Image: Photo by pure julia on Unsplash

Amazon Opens up Advertising to Traditionally Published Authors

by Susan U. Neal RN, MBA, MHS @SusanNealYoga
An integral part of selling books is marketing. I’ve found Amazon ads to be a vital part of my high book sale volume. I took a couple of courses to learn how to run Amazon ads. It took seven months to get the hang of it before my ads became profitable. But since then, for every hundred dollars I’ve spent on ads, I’ve made almost $200 in profit. Amazon wants their cut of your profits. If your book sells well and you are willing to split the profit, Amazon will display your book ad before potential buyers, which results in more sales. 
Since there are millions and millions of books listed on Amazon, it may be difficult for a reader to find your book unless they type your book’s title into the search bar, Amazon displays an ad of your book, or it is listed in the Amazon best sellers list for a category (top 100 books in any category is on the best seller list). For example, 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates is listed in the Healthy Diets Amazon Best Sellers list. To improve your chances of your book ranking high in a category, you should expand your Amazon categories from three to ten. But that is another topic. If interested, read my article Improve Your Book’s Amazon Rank or take the course, Improve Your Book’s Amazon Rank by Expanding Categories & Strengthening Keywords. 
Prior to March 2022, traditionally published authors could not run Amazon ads, so they had to rely on their publishers to run their book’s ads. Only self-published authors using Kindle Direct Publishing or Amazon Advantage vendors could run these ad campaigns for their books. As of March 2022, any author with a verified Amazon Author Central account can place Amazon ads for any book including traditionally published books. For now, this is only for the US marketplace. Traditionally published authors should login to their Amazon Author Central account or establish an account for free if they don’t have one. Click on the Reports + Marketing tab and look for the button that goes to the ads console. From there, you can set up your ads. Step-by-step instructions are provided in this article, How to Use Amazon Ads as a Traditionally-Published Author.
Amazon Ad Training ResourcesPaid advertising has a steep learning curve. If you want to learn the basics of Amazon ads, these offerings are available: Kindlepreneur offers a free courseAmazon Zero2Hero at https://amazona2z.teachable.com/p/amazon-zero2heroNicholas Erik has some of the best guidance on advertising for indie authors
Learning how to create and manage the ads is imperative, as you could lose a lot of money. Since authors can lose money, many are hesitant to advertise because it is risky. If you would prefer someone to manage your ads for you, here is a reputable company: Warrior Book Marketing Group specializes in Amazon Marketing. To find out more, contact vincent@warriorbookmarketing.com
It’s challenging to run profitable ads even for those with experience. Whether you decide to take a class and manage your own Amazon ads or pay someone else to do it, Amazon ads are effective. 
Stiffer CompetitionThis expansion will increase competition for Amazon ads and, therefore, ad costs. As usual, the big winner here is Amazon, with an advertising revenue of $31 billion and counting. In the future, watch out for ad requirements in a traditionally published contract. If a traditionally published author runs Amazon ads, the chance of profitability decreases even further for them because they typically earn less per copy than self-published authors. The availability of traditional authors to place Amazon ads could affect publishers’ marketing expectations of authors. What do you think?
TWEETABLEAmazon Opens up Advertising to Traditionally Published Authors, tips from @SusanNealYoga on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS: Susan’s mission is to improve the health of the body of Christ. She has her RN and MBA degrees, as well as a master’s in health science. She is a CERTIFIED HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHwith the American Association of Christian Counselors. She published five books, the Selah award winner 7 STEPS TO GET OFF SUGAR AND CARBOHYDRATES, CHRISTIAN STUDY GUIDE FOR 7 STEPS TO GET OFF SUGAR AND CARBOHYDRATES, HEALTHY LIVING JOURNAL, SCRIPTURE YOGAa #1 Amazon best-selling yoga book, and YOGA FOR BEGINNERSwhich ranked #3. She published two sets of Christian Yoga Card Decks and two Christian Yoga DVDs that are available at CHRISTINAYOGA.COM. Her digital product HOW TO PREVENT, IMPROVE, AND REVERSE ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIAis a great resource. To learn more about Susan visit her website SUSANUNEAL.COMYou can also connect with Susan on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, and INSTAGRAM.

How to Write to Inspire, Not Condemn – Part 3

by Katy Kauffman @KatyKauffman28
At the end of last year, I read the comments for a politically-charged Facebook post. Cringe.
I saw that some comments had Christian wording, but the tone was condemning. (And “condemning” is an understatement.) Super cringe.
I know better than to address American politics on social media, but the comments on others’ posts usually lure me in. I want to see what people say. Often, I wish I hadn’t stopped to look.
It’s hard to speak the truth with a friendly voice when someone’s opposing viewpoint strikes our hearts with fervor. Our zeal for our beliefs can cloud our judgment on how to respond. Our zeal for what’s right also has the potential of clouding the intrinsic value of the person we’re talking to. The same can be true for our writing. 
Address the Problem, Value the Reader
More often than not, we write from a fervor for the truth. We want people to know God better and experience life with Him at its best. Our writing usually tackles what gets in the way of that, like fear, worry, other struggles, or trials. We seek to provide proven strategies to handle life’s challenges. 
Sometimes we have to address a three-letter word that gets in the way of following God—sin. How does God want us to speak the truth about sin or anything else for that matter?
“But, speaking the truth in love,[we] may grow up in all things into Himwho is the head—Christ.”(Ephesians 4:15 NKJV)
Love—God’s own heartbeat. That’s what we need as we address a problem. To speak the truth in love. To remember the value God has placed on each of our readers. They are precious to Him, and they are precious to us. Do you remember how Jesus shared the truth with the multitudes?
“And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitudeand was moved with compassion for them,because they were like sheep not having a shepherd.So He began to teach them many things.”(Mark 6:34 NKJV)
Jesus has a shepherd’s heart for people, and with a heart of compassion, He ministered to both crowds and individuals. He taught them the ways of God, giving them the choice whether to accept those ways or not. He didn’t force the right way on them or create a guilt trip to make them do the right thing. 
He showed them who God is—He showed them love—as He taught the truth, and we can do the same thing as writers. With compassion, we can talk about common sin problems, show what Scripture says about overcoming them, and share strategies for victory. The whole time we can seek to encourage the reader instead of condemning them for a sin they may or may not be practicing. 
Our tone can take on this feel:I understand how hard this struggle is. I don’t want to share an easy fix or pat answer. God is strong enough, loving enough, to help us overcome this kind of hang up.Here’s what Scripture says about overcoming this struggle.Here are some of the consequences of where this wrong road can take us.But here’s what God wants to do in our lives, and He can get us back on the right road with our cooperation. Here are some strategies for saying yes to God’s way. (I want to say yes, too.)
Address the Problem, Share the Hope
We can address a problem, but we don’t stop there. We can balance what life is like apart from God with all that’s possible when we choose Him and follow Him. Whatever our topic is and whoever our target audience is, we can share the hope of God’s intervention—His rescue and healing in our lives. 
So instead of condemning our readers for sin that they may not even have an issue with, we can inspire them with God's way that brings hope. Hope of a different reality. Hope of overcoming what harms and of thriving in what builds up. Hope of “better,” “stronger.” Hope of being more effective for God’s kingdom. 
How do you seek to address sin or harmful hang ups in your writing? Do you use certain wording that is more encouraging than condemning?
For examples of wording to use, be sure to check out Part 1 if you haven’t, and see Part 2 for where we need to use a friendly voice in our writing. 
TWEETABLEHow to Write to Inspire, Not Condemn, Part 3, tips from @KatyKauffman28 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Don't Miss the Other Posts in This SeriesHow to Write to Inspire, Not Condemn, Part 1. How to Write to Inspire, Not Condemn, Part 2.How to Write to Inspire, Not Condemn, Part 3.
Katy Kauffman is an award-winning author, an editor of REFRESH BIBLE STUDY MAGAZINE, and a co-founder of LIGHTHOUSE BIBLE STUDIES. She loves connecting with writers and working alongside them in compilations, such as Feed Your Soul with the Word of God, Collection 1 which is a 2020 Selah Awards finalist.
In addition to online magazines, Katy’s writing can be found at CBN.COM, thoughts-about-God.com, and three blogs on writing. She loves to spend time with family and friends, talk about art and crafts in her group MY ARTSY TRIBE, and tend the garden in the morning sun. She makes her home in a cozy suburb of Atlanta, Georgia. Connect with her at her blog, WINNING THE VICTORY, and on FACEBOOK and TWITTER.